What Is Considered Men’s Business Attire?

As a small business owner, you must adopt the right business attire and require it of your male employees. The right attire helps your business build a professional reputation. That’s because customers make a first impression of your business based on how you look. Combine the right business attire for men with quality accessories to be taken seriously in the corporate environment.

Business Attire for Males

Your wardobe should include a two- or three-piece suit that dresses you up for serious business occasions. For example, if you’re planning to make a pitch to a group of corporate executives, you don’t want to be under-dressed. Your suit should be wrinkle-free and expensive-looking; however, off-the-rack suits are fine if they fit well.

Virginia Tech recommends a black, charcoal or dark navy suit made from natural fibers such as wool or a wool-blend. Select a solid-color or striped button-down shirt to make a good impression. The tie should be conservative and made from silk or other quality material. Traditional business attire for men is especially important when working in industries that require the public trust, including jobs in finance, investing and accounting, for example.

For the typical business office, or other types of events such as a conference or seminar, you might go with a simpler look, like a navy blazer and bone-colored chinos or dress pants. Finish off the outfit with a dress shirt and tie. Options for men’s business casual days include neutral-colored polos, chambray shirts, merino wool sweaters and cotton dress pants, according to the Essential Man.

Shoes and Socks

When wearing a suit, you can make or break the outfit with the rest of your ensemble. You need to find the right shoes to make your outfit look dressy. For example, look for a pair of leather shoes, either laces or dressy loafers, to wear with dark solid or simply patterned dress socks. Make sure your shoes are clean, polished and in good condition.

Quality Accessories

Sometimes you want to make a very expensive suit look even fancier by adding accessories. Consider options such as a tie clip with matching cuff links. Minimize jewelry, but consider a quality men’s watch. Wear a leather belt that matches your shoes. Sunglasses are best reserved for business casual days, however.

The point is that your business suit and accessories should not make you look confident but not too flashy. Emory University suggests carrying a portfolio case or briefcase to convey professionalism. Business attire makes you fit into a formal business environment, not stand out as a fashion setter.

Impeccable Grooming

Business attire also requires that a man follow professional grooming standards and other dressing details. Ensure that your hairstyle and facial hair are carefully groomed. Your fingernails should be trimmed and clean. When you bend over, your legs should not be showing, so your socks need to rise high enough to cover your legs. You also want to avoid wearing too much cologne or adding accessories, such as cartoon-character ties, that make your business attire inappropriate.